Dog agility training is a wonderful activity for many reasons. For example, agility training allows your dog to get mental and physical exercise. It is a fun, but serious, game for your pet; and most importantly, it creates a special bond between the two of you that strengthens your relationship. However, before starting to train your dog, you should know the basics.

What Is Agility Training?

In the simplest terms, agility is an obstacle course for your dog. Dog agility is a popular sport with competitive events. The handler directs their dog to complete various tasks, including going through tunnels, over tables, moving boards, jumping over bars and weaving through poles.

The agility course mimics movements that your dog would utilize if they were hunting. For example, jumping over logs, climbing steep surfaces, squeezing between bushes, and running quickly to catch up with prey. The agility obstacles help fulfill your pups natural instincts.

You (the handler) and your dog stay in constant contact through body language and quick verbal cues. Your canine family member relies on you to guide them through the course.Trust, clear communication, and teamwork are essential for success at the sport and in creating a stronger bond between you and your dog. Assisting your dog through agility courses will also help reinforce basic obedience commands that are used in everyday life.

Your Dog…

All breeds and sizes can participate in agility training and competition. However, you must evaluate your dog’s physical and mental health to determine if he would do well with agility. In order to be a good fit, your dog should respond well to your commands and enjoy being around people and other dogs.

The pace and demands on the body require that your dog be in good physical health. Joints can take a beating in agility, so consider adding NuJoint Plus dog hip and joint supplement and NuVet Plus from NuVet Labs to your potential competitor’s diet. If your dog doesn’t enjoy running or marches to the beat of his own drummer, he may not enjoy agility.

…And You

Just like your dog, you must possess the physical stamina to complete agility courses. You can navigate from a distance if running isn’t for you, but it requires specific instruction from a qualified trainer.

You should also consider the time and money you have to put towards the sport. To reap the full benefits of agility – bonding, exercise and mental stimulation – you have to work at it regularly. Whether you attend a group, a private agility class, or you purchase equipment to train at your home, cost is a factor. Quality equipment is essential for your dog’s safety.

Getting Started

If you decide to embark on agility training with your dog, begin by assuring his physical health. Agility is a great form of exercise for your canine companion. It will help him strengthen his muscles, stay fit, improve endurance, and burn excess energy.  Before beginning your agility training, start your dog on the right foot by putting him on the path to perfect health with a high-quality nutritional supplement.